Rapid Response: Standing Firm for Families
FIRST 5 Santa Clara County is proud to announce a $1 million investment to launch the Standing Firm for Families initiative, a bold, comprehensive strategy created to support young children and their families in the face of today’s most pressing challenges.
Our $1 Million Commitment to Families
FIRST 5 Santa Clara County is proud to announce a $1 million investment to launch the Standing Firm for Families initiative, a bold, comprehensive strategy created to support young children and their families in the face of today’s most pressing challenges. Originally designed to address the urgent impacts on the immigrant community, the initiative has taken on even greater importance as recent federal reductions to critical safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP have further intensified the needs of families with children ages 0–5.
The initiative will launch in phases, with applications for funding opportunities opening soon. Funding will be awarded to local organizations through a thoughtful and streamlined application process. By investing in trusted organizations with the infrastructure and expertise to deliver services, we ensure young children and their families get the right help at the right time while strengthening the long-term capacity of the community.
Wellness Supports for Workforce
We are committed to empowering the heroes who serve families every day. By investing in the well-being of staff on the frontlines, we strengthen their resilience and ensure they have the energy and support to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families in crisis.
Applications for Wellness Supports grants are now open for QUALITY MATTERS participants and current FIRST 5 grantees.
Emergency Funds
We are committed to being a lifeline when families face urgent challenges. By providing rapid financial support, we help stabilize households, protect children’s health and well-being, and give families the breathing room they need to recover and thrive. We are currently seeking a fiscal agent to help administer the grant funds.
Family Preparedness
We are committed to helping families build stability and resilience in the face of uncertainty. By supporting programs that strengthen household resources, knowledge, and planning, we empower families at risk of separation to remain united and create secure, thriving environments for their children.
Check back for when applications open for Family Preparedness.
"Standing Firm for Families reflects FIRST 5 Santa Clara County’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of young children and their families in the face of shifting policy landscapes. When federal programs are cut, our community does not stand still. We step forward—with resolve and with resources—to protect the health, stability, and future of children and families who depend on us."
Jennifer Kelleher Cloyd
Executive Director
Questions or interested in applying? Email us at StandingFirm@FIRST5kids.org.